The hot, dry climate of Orange County means landscaping is a year-round chore. Tackle one season at a time with this landscaping calendar.

Spring.

• Lawn Care: Mow at least once a week.
• Shrub Pruning: Prune flowering plants after they bloom. Cut back any plants that pose a fire danger.
• Mulch: Apply when the weather is warm, but not too hot.
• Fencing: Install, repair, or paint fencing.
• Hardscaping: Install or repair patios, patio covers, walkways, decks, and pergolas.
• Irrigation: Keep an eye on water restrictions for the year. If you want a water rebate, consider rain barrels, rotating sprinkler nozzles, and weather-based irrigation systems.
• Planting: Plant trees and shrubs in March before things get hot and dry. Plant tropical species in late spring and summer.

Summer

• Lawn Care: Mow at least once a week.
• Irrigation: Try to water three days or less a week. Water in the early morning to limit evaporation.

Fall

• Lawn Care: Slow mowing from once a week to once every other week.
• Leaf Cleanup: Handle cleanup with the help of a rake, leaf blower, mulching mower, or leaf removal service.
• Hardscaping: Install or repair patio covers and fire pits.
• Irrigation: Don’t water within 48 hours of rain.
• Planting: It’s best to plant trees, shrubs, and perennials in October or later because the rain helps with root development.

Winter

• Lawn Care: Mow once or twice a month.
• Landscape Lighting: Install lights for better visibility and a cheerier atmosphere.
• Irrigation: Turn off or recalibrate automatic sprinklers to reduce waste. Don’t water within 48 hours of rain.

There’s no magic spell to make these yard chores disappear – unless you hire a LawnStarter landscaping pro. We’ll handle all your landscaping needs, from xeriscaping, to lawn care, and yard cleanups.